Status of the Class for Writer's Workshop

Volume of writing is important for beginning writers. There are MANY reasons that writers may not produce a high volume of writing. The best method I've used to increase the volume and quality of writing in my classroom is taking the Status of the Class. It's been a game changer in my classroom. Taking Status of the Class helps me know where each writer is at in their current piece of writing. It's a couple of minutes worth their weight in gold.

I take a few minutes at the beginning of each writing work time to have each student report which stage they are at in their current piece of writing. We meet at the rug and all students have their current piece with them and I have the stages posted on our projector so they can easily name their stage.

You might have seen this Writers Workshop post chock full of writers workshop tips. 

It's important to teach writers to balance their volume of writing with the quality of their writing. When I track writing status, it gives me information for that day as well as patterns of their work habits. It helps me know which students need some extra support and what small or whole group lessons might be beneficial.

Here's an example of my notes, including a tracker I use for their writing topics.

I love knowing quickly where each writer is at with their writing, which students might need support and what small or whole group lessons would be beneficial. If your writers are struggling for personal narrative writing ideas, it's important to spend time nurturing their writing ideas.

Here are some more pictures and info about what I use to track the status.

I have two options available for you if you're looking for a way to take the Status of the Class - this one is free (not editable) and this version is editable.

Put your questions in the comments or shoot me an email at lisa@growingfirsties.com - I love to help teachers!